The research programme consists of two broad portfolios. The first, which deals with issues relating to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, focuses on: North Korean and Iranian nuclear diplomacy; countering proliferation finance and the sanctions regimes imposed to address proliferation threats; and the structure, operations, and evasion tactics of North Korean proliferation networks. The second, covering nuclear policy more broadly, involves research into: the UK’s nuclear weapons programme and its policies on arms control and deterrence; contemporary stresses on the non-proliferation regime, and UK policy towards it; and the effect of advanced conventional precision-strike capabilities on nuclear stability.

The team conducts a range of engagement activities alongside this research, foremost among which is the UK Project on Nuclear Issues (UK PONI), a cross-generational initiative that connects emerging nuclear scholars and professionals with established experts. Other important components include Track II dialogues, both discreet and public, in which capacity RUSI leads the UK component of the high-level, France/UK/US Trilateral Nuclear Dialogues. Proliferation and Nuclear Policy programme experts also train government, military and industry representatives in the UK and overseas on nuclear policy and nuclear technologies, and on best practices for countering proliferation finance.

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Ensuring the global supply chain is not abused by North Korea to evade international sanctions requires a systemic approach. The current response is failing, and the involvement of a far greater range of private sector actors is urgently needed.

Our Research Fellow in proliferation and nuclear policy has just returned from the latest meeting of the Preparatory Committee for the review of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty in an optimistic mood.

Countering the financial flows available to state and non-state proliferators plays an important role in wider efforts to counter the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Understanding proliferation financing risks improves jurisdictions' awareness of this illicit activity and strengthens their ability to respond. This guide offers information and guidance for conducting a proliferation...

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Our Research Fellow in proliferation and nuclear policy has just returned from the latest meeting of the Preparatory Committee for the review of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty in an optimistic mood.

Russia is strengthening its links with North Korea in order to position itself as an indispensable interlocutor between Washington and Pyongyang. But the cost Russia could demand for regional cooperation may prove prohibitive for the US.

Can the US offer enough financial incentives to North Korea in exchange for denuclearisation, without discrediting the current sanctions regime? A way around the dilemma may exist. As President Donald Trump meets his North Korean counterpart, the role of sanctions in the negotiations warrant further discussion.

This is the updated version of the model law from the previous guidance paper produced by RUSI on countering proliferation finance. It aims to assist governments seeking to strengthen their legal and...

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Now its ninth year, the UK PONI Annual Conference is the premier national forum for the nuclear policy community to consider salient issues in the field and promote the emergence of a new generation...

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RUSI members enjoy privileged access to the RUSI Journal, Newsbrief and Defence Systems as well as invitations to our full programme of exclusive members’ lectures and seminars. Members also have access to our renowned Library of Military History and online catalogue.